The Kneeslider

Doers Builders and Positive People

Yamaha 3 Cylinder Crossplane Concept Engine

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Yamaha just introduced their concept of the way forward in engines with a crossplane 3 cylinder engine. Like the engine in the current R1, the crossplane configuration delivers smooth application of power with a distinctive, and most would say, very satisfying exhaust note. As a 3 cylinder, they open the way to new, smaller displacement motorcycles, though no mention of what … [Read more...]

VTR 1000 Super Hawk – Another Super Subtle Custom Build by Alex Zemlin

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If you liked the Honda CB 1.5 built by Alex Zemlin, this very impressive VTR 1000 Super Hawk GT by the same builder will make you appreciate the quality of his creations. In the same fashion as the CB, he did a lot of work that's plain to see, but unless you're very familiar with the VTR, you might not notice it until it's pointed out. Alex built this several years ago, but … [Read more...]

Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat Sets Bonneville Record

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There's been a rush of emails in my inbox lately announcing lots of new motorcycle speed records, it must have been a good year for the salt. This one just came in and it's actually pretty impressive. The new Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat set a record of 172.211mph in the APF3000 category (unfaired, naturally aspirated, pushrod v-twin, over 2000cc). What that means is it's … [Read more...]

Cold War Era Kremlin Escort Ural Sidecar Rig

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Scanning the motorcycle for sale listings, this Ural sidecar rig caught my eye because it has quite a unique look. According to the description, it was a Kremlin escort and one of only 17 ever made. The model year is 1969, deep in the middle of the cold war, the USSR still existed and you can almost imagine the uniformed soviet police rider looking appropriately serious as he … [Read more...]

KTM 300 EXC All Wheel Drive Conversion

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Today's dirt bikes are pretty capable machines, light weight with long travel suspension and able to traverse rugged terrain with ease, but there are times additional drive from the front wheel would be an advantage. Marty Lawson and his dad decided to design a front drive system for a KTM 300 EXC and what you see here is their third prototype and it looks like they've got it … [Read more...]

Honda CB-1.5 – Big Changes Hiding in Plain Sight

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Many of us have had the experience of seeing a motorcycle, and noticing nothing out of the ordinary, we walk right by, but then, something makes us turn around and look again. With this bike, however, what builder Alex Zemlin calls his Honda CB-1.5, the craftsmanship is so subtle, the quality of the modifications so high, most of us wouldn't turn around and that's a shame, … [Read more...]